Lonesome Moon & I - By Zoya Salahuddin

Written By: Zoya Salahuddin

Category: Poetry

Competition: Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Zoya Salahuddin, under the writing name "Lonesome Moon & I," presents a poignant piece titled "Lonesome Moon & I" in the Poetry category. Her work is part of the esteemed Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This profound poem captures a dialogue between the poet and the moon, delving into themes of introspection and yearning. Zoya's work invites readers to ponder their own desires and internal struggles, mirroring the celestial dance of the moon and the sun.

About the Work

"Lonesome Moon & I" explores a deeply introspective theme through a dialogue with the moon. The poem is rich with imagery, capturing a profound sense of longing and internal conflict. Zoya Salahuddin employs a contemplative tone, creating a reflective piece that resonates with anyone who has grappled with unfulfilled desires. The moon serves as a powerful metaphor, embodying the tension between duty and desire, and the fear of embracing one's true self.

Lonesome Moon & I

Original Submission by Zoya Salahuddin

I observed the moon intently that night and I questioned,

"Oh moon, are we one in the same? Do you confuse yourself too?"

Which strange to tell, replied to my despondence with "you and I share the same struggle, we do."

Then it hit me. An epiphany of sorts..

It's insatiable, her desire to see the sun up close,

but she fears this juxtaposition with immense remorse.

She keeps him at arm's length, knowing full well that all she longs for is to be in his.

For it tisn't destiny nor fate that keeps them apart,

rather, her conscience, her recluse heart.

If only she weren't so loyal to her duties, her functions and responsibilities would she stop revolving around the earth for once and be with the one who would bring her the rings of saturn, make her forget the dunce.

But she knows all too well that if she lifts this veil of proximity, he would melt her icy cold, frozen exterior,

and an unknown side of herself, she'd see.

Then the lonesome moon comes forth, and begins to interrogate me, with gaze forlorn.

"Always had eyes for him but have you not the courage to call him your own?

Why do you make him out to be just a temporary place to roam?

Is it the feeling of guilt that is just too profound to be overcome? something you wish never to be undone?

For does it make you a poltroon, should you wish to see him in his element? or does it make you a martyr, battered and bruised dying in the storm so cool?

Subdued solely by the warmth of his existence and all your predilection towards him, completely irrelevant.

It's nonsense, I say, that you'd be willing to trade all the bright sunrays, butterflies, beauty, bliss and bouquets but never concede that you'd been conquered by the charm of his love's haze.”

About the Competition

The Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious event celebrating the art of writing. It showcases diverse voices from around the globe, offering a platform for poets and writers to share their unique perspectives. This competition is a testament to the enduring power of words in capturing the human experience.

We extend our gratitude to Zoya Salahuddin for her thoughtful contribution, "Lonesome Moon & I," to the Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Her insightful exploration of desire and introspection offers a unique perspective that enriches the creative landscape. Thank you, Zoya, for sharing your poetic voice with us.

About Hashtag Kalakar

Hashtag Kalakar is a creative platform dedicated to providing artists, writers, singers and other creative talents with opportunities to showcase their work and reach wider audiences through competitions, features and creative initiatives.